Folk-pop-indie-rock duo Jencey Hirunrusme (piano and vocals) and Ryan Hamilton (guitar and vocals) make up the Dallas, Texas, band Smile Smile. These two—an ex-couple who truly loved, related, and lived—artistically channeled their honest emotions and thoughts on relationships into Marry a Stranger. The music is hipster-esque but embodies something more than a strictly alternative vibe. At times, the songs reach mystical and serene waters. With a simple writing style, each unique song is likeable and tells a very real story. Jencey says, “I think a lot of people try to overwork songs. Songs should be easy.”

The album opens with “This Is for Real,” a duet that displays how nice their voice blend together. The song reminds us that those we choose to spend time with are the realest part of our lives. “Marry a Stranger” highlights Jencey’s airy, low voice and Ryan’s brighter narrative. Anyone who ever has gotten married will likely resonate with at least one phrase in this song. Relationships are tricky, and we humans have a knack for keeping them that way. “Who’s that you’re talking to / Hurry up and get a clue / Does she know you belong to me? / A lifetime left of love to lose / Soon to be the bride and groom / I’m shakin’ in my boots with cold feet / I think I’ll marry a stranger / It seems so much safer / Than going through the whole damn thing again.”

They also have a slew of breakup songs. In “Next to Me” Ryan sings the lead line, and Jencey whispers the hooks. Her sly, windy voice and Ryan’s words give the song attitude. “If you’re lookin’ to get to me / Get in line.” They go deep into interpersonal waters with “Fatal Flaw.” Atop a funky guitar groove the duo speculates on what went wrong in their relationship, but in a light, bubbly way that you cannot help but enjoy. And then the mood turns around with “Permanent Bliss,” where the two sing about how good it is to live together. Everything can be summed up in “Backwards.” The song, like life, is gritty, beautiful, and real. “This life is backwards to me / We try / Struggle / Believe.”